Alcalá la Real has been in existence since prehistoric times and many of the traditions and customs practised today are reminders of the town’s rich history. From the time the Romans first settled on La Mota, through the Muslim occupation of the town and into the Christian era, each successive culture has left its mark on the modern-day society and its many colourful celebrations.
MARCH The Bonfires of San José- Fire is the main feature on the Eve of San José, celebrated at night on 18 March. Bonfires are built in front of niches bearing statues in honour of the saint. These are encountered in Calle Abad Palomino and Calle Ancha.
Bands of trumpets and drums from the various religious brotherhoods play music while marching from one fire to another. Like in La Candelaria, olive branches are burnt and people enjoy homemade wine and sausages.
APRIL Semana Santa- This religious tradition commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. As in other cities in Spain, it is celebrated normally at the end of March or the beginning of April coinciding with the end of Lent. It begins on Palm Sunday and lasts the entire week. Various acts of religious worship take place throughout the week.
The principal attractions of Semana Santa are the processions led by the Catholic brotherhoods of Alcalá, playing their brass instruments and drums. Semana Santa in Alcaláis so famous that it has been recognised by the Spanish government for its importance to tourism. One of the highlights of the week is the representation of the Romans and the apostles on the morning of Good Friday as they act out scenes from the New Testament. The most solemn of processions takes place on Friday evening when the images of Christ on the cross and the grieving Virgin Mary are paraded through the streets accompanied by Roman soldiers on horseback.
Video of Semana Santa
Pilgrimage of the Virgen de la Cabeza- On the last Sunday in April, the town’s Catholic brotherhood of the Virgen de la Cabeza and hundreds of devout believers meet at the Sanctuary of Cerro del Cabezo in Andujar (Jaén) to take part in the oldest pilgrimage in Spain.
After a mass which takes place in front of the sanctuary, pilgrims spend a day camping alongside the River Jandula. Other faithful of Alcalá take part in a pilgrimage to la Hoya del Salobral in Noalejo (Granada).
